Please note that salary rates will be increasing to $86,377 - $127,313pa, as of 13 June 2026.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) lead the sustainable development of Western Australia’s regions and agriculture, aquaculture, food and fisheries sectors. In everything we do, we take an approach to protect, grow and innovate WA’s economy, community and environment. To learn more about our department, our team and the work we do, please visit our website.
About the Opportunity
We have the following fixed term – full time positions available for immediate filling:
- One (1) SCL1 Veterinary Officer (Field) Intern
- One (1) SCL2 Veterinary Officer (Field) Intern
The positions are located in Albany, Northam or Narrogin. Other locations across WA may also be considered. These positions are available for two (2) years.
Join DPIRD’s Veterinary Officer Internship Program, an exciting initiative supported by the recent Biosecurity funding boost! Dive into a fulfilling role at DPIRD, where you'll receive unparalleled support and mentorship. This program is suitable for early career vets or experienced production animal vets looking for a change. Great working conditions (including flexible working arrangements) for a 37.5 hour working week and no on-call. Working in regional offices alongside experienced officers, you'll thrive in a collaborative environment, honing your skills while contributing to emergency animal disease surveillance and preparedness. This two-year program offers a unique opportunity to make a difference in regional communities.
You will enjoy a mix of hands-on field work and office-based project work, applying your tertiary knowledge to safeguard our biosecurity and market access. You will work closely with experienced officers, contributing to vital surveillance, regulation, and emergency preparedness for WA's livestock and aquatic industries. Your role will also involve researching, advising on policy, and assisting in developing animal health plans.
We are looking for individuals with:
- A passion for Animal Biosecurity.
- A degree in Veterinary Science (obtained from an Australian university or recognised equivalent), and current recognised registration (or able to obtain before commencement) with the Veterinary Practice Board of Western Australia.
- Knowledge and experience in production animal medicine, including how to investigate disease at an individual and herd/flock level.
- A "C" class drivers licence currently valid in Western Australia and a willingness to travel.
For further information and special requirements for this role please see attached Job Description Forms (JDFs).
Equity and Diversity
At DPIRD we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce and are an equal opportunity employer. We value and strongly encourage people with disabilities, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, young people, women and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to apply for positions within our agency.
How to Apply
Click the Apply button and attach the following to your application:
- A comprehensive CV (no more than 3 pages) that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements including details of two (2) referees.
- A cover letter of no more than two (2) pages in length demonstrating how your skills, knowledge and experience relate to this opportunity.
- Your cover letter should also include examples from your previous experience and achievements that demonstrate how your personal values align with the department's. For an overview of the department’s values, view the attached DPIRD Applicant Information Kit.
- As there are multiple levels being advertised, please clearly state which level/s you are applying for in your cover letter. You may apply for multiple levels in the same application.
It is recommended that you consider all information contained in the advertisement and any other related information. Please note you do not have to address the work-related requirements at this stage. All Work-Related Requirements will be assessed at some stage during the selection process.
Need further information?
For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Dr Leander McLennan, Senior Veterinary Officer (Policy) on 0459 938 383 during office hours.
If you experience technical difficulties applying online, please contact the RAMS Helpdesk on 1300 733 056 in the first instance. For further information about the recruitment process please contact our Employment team on (08) 6552 1943.
Employment Conditions and Additional Information
DPIRD is an Emergency Management Agency and all employees may be required to work or travel during, or outside of, normal business hours to assist with incidents and emergencies.
Am I eligible to apply?
To be eligible for a permanent appointment to the Western Australian public sector you must be an Australian citizen or have permanent residency status in Australia. To be eligible for a fixed term or a casual appointment you must have documentary evidence of your entitlement to live and work in Australia for the period as part of your application.
You will be required to provide a current National Police Certificate (police clearance) before commencing employment. If not currently held, this must be acquired prior to appointment at applicant’s expense.
This process may be used to fill other same/similar fixed term, permanent, vacancies that arise in DPIRD at locations listed in this advert. In addition to this, should the successful applicant decline or vacate the advertised position, the panel may select another suitable applicant from this selection process. Both of these options remain valid for a period of twelve (12) months from the approval of the initial recruitment decision.
The recruitment process may include online written assessments, psychometric, cognitive or other testing, job-related tasks, video or live stream interviews, documentation and reference checks or other assessment methodologies as required. We reserve the right to supplement the field of applicants via an executive search if required.
Please ensure you have plenty of time to submit your application to allow for unanticipated problems, as late and proforma applications will not be accepted. (Please note: Online lodgement is system generated. Any submissions on or after 4:00pm will not be accepted)
